Loafers: How to Wear Them and Style

Don’t misunderstand us. Even now, we adore sneakers. They are something we almost always wear. However, having some variety in your selection of shoes doesn’t hurt. An elegant pair of loafers serves as this substitute for many folks.

We don’t only mean keeping a pair of black leather shoes in your wardrobe just for a wedding or a nice dinner date. Loafers go perfectly with casual attire. And with so many different styles available today, pairing a pair of loafers with a pair of jeans or even some nylon shorts in the summer has become a little less intimidating.

If you’re considering purchasing your first pair, you might be unsure of where to begin. It’s not as easy as just placing an order for a pair of trainers in your typical size and wearing them around. There are certain general guidelines to keep in mind. Look nowhere else. We have your back. We asked Chris Echevarria to help us so that we could offer the best guidance possible. Some of the best loafers on the market right now are produced by Echevarria, who established Blackstock & Weber in 2017. Since he was a young child accompanying his grandmother to church, he has worn loafers and has always kept a pair in his collection of shoes. He now incorporates them into his more laid-back attire.

His company’s unconventional executions, which have featured animal designs and white tennis ball cloth, are encouraging more individuals to follow suit. He contributes to the idea that loafers are much more than just a traditional formal shoe.

According to Echevarria, “I wanted to create this brand because the way we have been marketed loafers was just limiting.” “You can dress them a little more formally or more casually. The majority of people even claim, “Sneakers are dead,” but I would never say anything along those lines. I’m a huge sneakerhead. However, I believe there are still alternative choices available. You don’t always have to take your favourite pair of trainers out of your closet. The loafer may be to blame.

Check out our suggestions below to discover everything you need to know, from how to choose the perfect size to the proper maintenance.

If you choose to shop through some of the links on this page, Complex may receive a portion of your purchase.

Never hesitate to dress them down.

You may have avoided loafers because you believe they aren’t as adaptable as a pair of trainers. You can wear them with a pair of shorts or some sweatpants, however we can’t promise they are as adaptable as shoes. You can appear decent. You won’t appear to be in a fraternity, either. In the summer, a pair of chinos or shorts in a solid colour that sits above the knee looks wonderful. Wear a white T-shirt, your favourite cap, some sweats, and your loafers the next time you have to dash to the grocery store. Another fantastic approach to break them in is to wear them casually, like you are doing here (more on that later).

That doesn’t mean you should try to pull off your new loafers with your favourite pair of Mitchell & Ness shorts or your favourite NFL team’s shirt on Sunday this season. Also avoid attempting to wear them with some cargos. But enjoy it while you can. In the process, you might find your new go-to outfit.

Should I Wear Socks?

The response is “both”

White crew socks and loafers are not only for the elderly any longer. Actually, this appearance is pretty fashionable. Socks shouldn’t be too thick because they will bunch up and make everything seem even more constricting. Loafers also don’t make for the most breathable shoes. You’ll want to try your hardest to minimise your perspiration. No use here for the tried-and-true Nike socks. Also put those Stance socks and anything with a crazy print in the drawer. Most likely, a pair of crew socks from Uniqlo will do the trick. They’re also reasonably priced, so you won’t panic if the liner transfers slightly to the sock after you wear them (it happens during the process; don’t panic). We find that white socks look the best, but you may really wear any solid-colored pair to go with your outfit.

You won’t likely choose tube socks if you’re wearing them with shorts while on vacation or just want to look more summery. Never, ever, ever put on ankle socks. We can respect your decision to wear a no-show sock for peace of mind. Yet, a lot of individuals, including Echevarria, just suggest rocking them barefoot. Although it could take some getting accustomed to, it will give you the desired aesthetic. Also, once they’re broken in, as we’ll go into more detail shortly, they’ll be considerably more comfortable. Go barefoot 100 %, advises Echevarria. “Purchase a shoehorn. Go around, put your fucking foot in the shoe. Man, you should perspire while wearing your shoes. That is what allows them entry.

Any Season Is Good for Loafer

We know. We reserve some pairs of shoes for specific seasons or when the weather is just right. While there are still situations where following those kinds of standards is necessary, such as when you recently purchased a pair of peach suede loafers and the forecast calls for all-day rain, more often than not you can just throw on a pair and hit the streets without worrying. Additionally, there are a tonne of companies creating lug-soled loafers right now that are better suited to navigating the varied outdoor terrains. If you think the typical loafer sole is still too dressy for your taste, the lug sole also offers a considerably more casual appearance.